Surgery For Lumbar Degenerative Disease Research Articles

Comprehensive Analysis of UBE-Related Complications: Prevention and Management Strategies from 4685 Patients.

Unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) surgery is a minimally invasive approach for treatment of spinal disorders, which usually requires creation of a working and viewing channel on 1 side. The UBE technique has developed rapidly in China in recent years, and many spine surgeons have started to apply it and have shared the initial clinical research results many times at minimally invasive spine conferences. Unfortunately, these studies actually translated into fewer publications. In addition, most patients have good outcomes after UBE surgery, but a minority still experience UBE surgery-related complications, including epidural hematoma, dural sac tears, retroperitoneal effusions, inadequate decompression, postoperative back pain and headache, early recurrence, iatrogenic spinal instability, anemia, and infection, which can prolong hospital stay and seriously affect patient satisfaction. Therefore, this article reviews the complications of UBE surgery for lumbar degenerative diseases and discusses ways to prevent and handle complications associated with UBE to help spine surgeons make smart treatment decisions.

Effect of Residual Pain After Posterior Fusion Surgery for Lumbar Degenerative Disorders on Health-Related Quality of Life: A Two-Year Follow-Up Using Patient-Reported Outcome Measures.

This is a prospective cohort study. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of residual pain after fusion surgery for lumbar degenerative diseases on quality of life (QOL). Residual symptoms after spinal surgery often restrict patients' activities of daily living and reduce their QOL. However, few studies have comprehensively addressed physical, psychological, and social factors. The study population included a cohort of 208 patients (mean age: 67.9 years) who had undergone posterior interbody fusion for lumbar degenerative disease between 2012 and 2019. We asked the patients to complete the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Back Pain Evaluation Questionnaire (JOABPEQ)andShort Form Health Survey (SF-36)preoperatively, as well as at six, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. The presence of residual postoperative pain (RPP) was determined using the low back pain score of the JOABPEQ at six months postoperatively, and patients with an improvement of < 20 points compared to preoperative assessment were classified as RPP+ based on a previous study. In all patients, there was a notable postoperative improvement in all JOABPEQ and SF-36 domains compared to preoperative scores. The RPP+ group comprised 60 patients (69.6 years), while the RPP- group comprised 148 patients (67.2 years). In the RPP+ group, the lumbar function in the JOABPEQ and general health in the SF-36 showed limited postoperative enhancement. The pace of improvement in the role-emotional, role-physical, social functioning, vitality, and mental health scores was slower in the RPP+ group compared to the RPP- group. In the current study, we found that the presence of residual pain at six months postoperatively affected QOL improvement up to 24 months after surgery. Lingering postoperative pain substantially impacted functional incapacity, social engagement, and psychological well-being. Notably, the lumbar function in the JOABPEQ and general health in the SF-36 showed distinct progression patterns in the RPP+ group.

A Novel Intraoperative CT Navigation System for Spinal Fusion Surgery in Lumbar Degenerative Disease: Accuracy and Safety of Pedicle Screw Placement.

Background: In recent years, intraoperative computed tomography (CT) navigation has become widely used for the insertion of pedicle screws in spinal fusion surgery. However, conventional intraoperative CT navigation may be impaired by infrared interference between the infrared camera and surgical instruments, which can lead to the misplacement of pedicle screws. Recently, a novel intraoperative CT navigation system, NextAR, has been developed. It uses a small infrared camera mounted on surgical instruments within the surgical field. NextAR navigation can minimize the problem of infrared interference and be expected to improve the accuracy of pedicle screw placement. Methods: This study investigated the accuracy of pedicle screw insertion under NextAR navigation in spinal fusion surgery for lumbar degenerative diseases. The accuracy of pedicle screw placement was evaluated in 15 consecutive patients using a CT grading scale. Results: Screw perforation occurred in only 1 of the total 70 screws (1.4%). Specifically, there was one grade 1 perforation within 2 mm, but no perforations larger than 2 mm. There were no reoperations or neurological complications due to screw misplacement. Conclusions: NextAR navigation can provide high accuracy for pedicle screw insertion and help ensure safe spinal fusion surgery for lumbar degenerative diseases.

Preoperative Mobile Health Data Improve Predictions of Recovery From Lumbar Spine Surgery.

Neurosurgeons and hospitals devote tremendous resources to improving recovery from lumbar spine surgery. Current efforts to predict surgical recovery rely on one-time patient report and health record information. However, longitudinal mobile health (mHealth) assessments integrating symptom dynamics from ecological momentary assessment (EMA) and wearable biometric data may capture important influences on recovery. Our objective was to evaluate whether a preoperative mHealth assessment integrating EMA with Fitbit monitoring improved predictions of spine surgery recovery. Patients age 21-85 years undergoing lumbar surgery for degenerative disease between 2021 and 2023 were recruited. For up to 3 weeks preoperatively, participants completed EMAs up to 5 times daily asking about momentary pain, disability, depression, and catastrophizing. At the same time, they were passively monitored using Fitbit trackers. Study outcomes were good/excellent recovery on the Quality of Recovery-15 (QOR-15) and a clinically important change in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Pain Interference 1 month postoperatively. After feature engineering, several machine learning prediction models were tested. Prediction performance was measured using the c-statistic. A total of 133 participants were included, with a median (IQR) age of 62 (53, 68) years, and 56% were female. The median (IQR) number of preoperative EMAs completed was 78 (61, 95), and the median (IQR) number of days with usable Fitbit data was 17 (12, 21). 63 patients (48%) achieved a clinically meaningful improvement in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System pain interference. Compared with traditional evaluations alone, mHealth evaluations led to a 34% improvement in predictions for pain interference (c = 0.82 vs c = 0.61). 49 patients (40%) had a good or excellent recovery based on the QOR-15. Including preoperative mHealth data led to a 30% improvement in predictions of QOR-15 (c = 0.70 vs c = 0.54). Multimodal mHealth evaluations improve predictions of lumbar surgery outcomes. These methods may be useful for informing patient selection and perioperative recovery strategies.

Evaluating the Efficacy of IL-6 as Predictors of Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion Success: Insights From Pain Scores and JOABPEQ Assessments.

A prospective study. This study aims to explore the correlation between interleukin (IL)- 6 levels in intervertebral disc (IVD) tissue and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing lumbar surgery for lumbar degenerative disease (LDD). This prospective study analyzed 32 patients (22 men and 10 women, average age 69.6 years) who underwent lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF). IL-6 gene expression in IVD tissues collected during surgery was measured and correlated with pre- and postoperative clinical outcomes, including pain intensity assessed via Numeric Rating Scales (NRS) and quality of life (QOL) evaluated through the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Back Pain Evaluation Questionnaire (JOABPEQ). IL-6 levels showed statistical correlations with postoperative intensity of low back pain (LBP) and several JOABPEQ domains. Patients with higher expression of IL-6 levels experienced more severe postoperative LBP and lower scores in lumbar function, walking ability, social life function, and mental health. The effectiveness rate of JOABPEQ scores was exceptionally high for low back pain (.548), walking ability (.677), and social functioning (.563), demonstrating the effectiveness of LLIF. The average operation time was 105.6 minutes, and the estimated blood loss was 85.6mL. The study underscores IL-6 as a potential biomarker for predicting surgical outcomes in LDD. High IL-6 levels correlate with worse postoperative LBP and lower QOL scores. Integrating molecular markers like IL-6 with patient-reported outcomes could provide a more comprehensive approach to postoperative care in spinal disorders, aiming to improve the overall QOL for LDD patients undergoing LLIF surgery.

Incidence and predictors of acute kidney injury after elective surgery for lumbar degenerative disease: A 13-year analysis of the US Nationwide Inpatient Sample.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a severe postoperative complication associated with poor clinical outcomes, including the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and death. This study aimed to investigate the incidence and determinants of AKI following elective surgeries for degenerative lumbar spine disease. All patient data were extracted from the US Nationwide Inpatient Sample database. After surgery, AKI's incidence and risk factors were identified for lumbar degenerative disease. ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes defined lumbar spine degenerative disease, fusion, decompression, and AKI. The study cohort was categorized by type of surgery, that is, decompression alone or spinal fusion. Regression analysis was used to identify associations between AKI and risk factors organized by surgery type. The incidence of AKI after decompression or fusion was 1.1% and 1.8%, respectively. However, the incidence of AKI in the United States is rising. The strongest predictor of AKI was underlying CKD, which was associated with an 9.0- to 12.9-fold more significant risk of AKI than in subjects without comorbid CKD. In this setting, older age, congestive heart failure, anemia, obesity, coagulopathy and hospital-acquired infections were also strong predictors of AKI. In contrast, long-term aspirin/anticoagulant usage was associated with lowered AKI risk. Findings of this study inform risk stratification for AKI and may help to optimize treatment decisions and care planning after elective surgery for lumbar degenerative disease.

Psoriatic arthritis increases the risk of venous thromboembolism following degenerative lumbar spine surgery: An analysis of U.S. Nationwide Inpatient Sample 2005–2018

BackgroundThis retrospective study aimed to determine the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with PsA after surgery for lumbar degenerative disease (LDD). MethodsThe study data of adults aged ≥20 years admitted to U.S. hospitals with diagnoses of LDD and undergoing spinal decompression or fusion between 2005 and 2018 were extracted from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. Patients were further divided into two groups based on a diagnosis of PsA or not via codes ICD-9: 696.0 and ICD-10: L40.50. Patients with missing information were excluded. Propensity score matching (PSM) was employed to enhance comparability between groups. Logistic regression was used to determine associations between PsA and various outcomes, including complications, unfavorable discharge, and prolonged length of stay (LOS). ResultsData on 471,283 patients with LDD was extracted from the NIS database.from 2005 to 2018. Before propensity score matching, patients with PsA had higher proportions of overall morbidity (8.8 % vs. 6.9 %), VTE (1.4 % vs. 0.7 %), and unfavorable discharge (20.8 % vs. 16.9 %). After matching, patients with PsA still had higher VTE incidence and unfavorable discharge proportions. After adjustments, multivariable regression analysis indicated that patients with PsA had a higher risk of unfavorable discharge (aOR: 1.26, 95 % CI: 1.03–1.55) and VTE (aOR: 1.99, 95 % CI: 1.05–3.75). ConclusionsAmong patients undergoing surgery for LDD, pre-existing PsA may be associated with increased risks of unfavorable discharge and VTE occurrence. The findings may benefit preoperative risk stratifications before LDD surgeries.

Preoperative Motor Function Associated with Short-Term Gain of Health-Related Quality of Life after Surgery for Lumbar Degenerative Disease: A Pilot Prospective Cohort Study in Japan.

This study aimed to estimate the relationship between preoperative motor function and short-term recovery of health-related quality of life after lumbar surgery in patients with lumbar degenerative disease. This prospective cohort study involved 50 patients with lumbar degenerative disease at a general hospital in Japan. The primary outcome was the achievement of minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for EuroQOL 5 dimensions (EQ-5D) at discharge. Preoperative demographic, medication, surgical, and physical function data were collected. Logistic regression analysis was performed using the achievement of MCID for EQ-5D as the dependent variable and preoperative characteristics, including the Five Times Sit to Stand test (FTSTS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS), as the independent variables. The logistic regression analysis showed that Model 1 had a moderate predictive accuracy (Nagelkerke R2: 0.20; Hosmer-Lemeshow test: p = 0.19; predictive accuracy: 70.0%). Among the independent variables in the logistic regression model, the FTSTS was the only independent variable related to the achievement of MCID for EQ-5D at discharge (odds ratio: 0.03; 95% CI: 1.79 × 10-3, 0.18). Our results highlighted the importance of baseline motor function in the postoperative recovery of health-related quality of life in individuals with lumbar degenerative disease.

Risk factors for not reaching minimal clinically important difference at 90 days and 1 year after elective lumbar spine surgery: a cohort study.

Patient-perceived functional improvement is a core metric in lumbar surgery for degenerative disease. It is important to identify both modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors that can be evaluated and possibly optimized prior to elective surgery. This case-control study was designed to study risk factors for not achieving the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Function 4-item Short Form (PROMIS PF) score. The authors queried the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative database to identify patients who underwent elective lumbar surgical procedures with PROMIS PF scores. Cases were divided into two cohorts based on whether patients achieved MCID at 90 days and 1 year after surgery. Patient characteristics and operative details were analyzed as potential risk factors. The authors captured 10,922 patients for 90-day follow-up and 4453 patients (40.8%) did not reach MCID. At the 1-year follow-up period, 7780 patients were identified and 2941 patients (37.8%) did not achieve MCID. The significant demographic characteristic-adjusted relative risks (RRs) for both groups (RR 90 day, RR 1 year) included the following: symptom duration > 1 year (1.34, 1.41); previous spine surgery (1.25, 1.30); African American descent (1.25, 1.20); chronic opiate use (1.23, 1.25); and less than high school education (1.20, 1.34). Independent ambulatory status (0.83, 0.88) and private insurance (0.91, 0.85) were associated with higher likelihood of reaching MCID at 90 days and 1 year, respectively. Several key unique demographic risk factors were identified in this cohort study that precluded optimal postoperative functional outcomes after elective lumbar spine surgery. With this information, appropriate preoperative counseling can be administered to assist in shaping patient expectations.

Effect of spinal-pelvic sagittal balance on the clinical outcomes after lumbar fusion surgery

BackgroundSpinal-pelvic sagittal balance is important for maintaining energy-efficient posture in normal and diseased states.Few reports to date have evaluated the effect of spinal-pelvic sagittal balance on clinical outcomes after lumbar interbody fusion in patients with lumbar degenerative diseases (LDD).MethodsA total of 303 patients treated with posterior lumbar interbody fusion surgery for lumbar degenerative disease from January 2012 to December 2019 were enrolled in this retrospective study according to the inclusion criteria. Preoperative and postoperative spinal-pelvic sagittal parameters including pelvic incidence (PI), pelvic tilt (PT), sacral slope (SS) and lumbar lordosis (LL) of the patients were evaluated and compared. 163 patients whose postoperative PI-LL ≤ 10° were divided into the spinal-pelvic match group (Group M), while 140 patients were divided into the spinal-pelvic mismatch group (Group MM). Preoperative and postoperative Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for back pain of both groups were compared.ResultsThere was no significant difference between the two groups in demographic and surgical data, except for blood loss in surgery. LL, PI, PT and SS of the patients at final follow-up were all statistically different from the preoperative values in the two groups(P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in LL, PI, PT and SS between the two groups before surgery. At the final follow-up, LL, PI and PT differed significantly between the two groups(P < 0.05). Compared with the preoperative results, ODI and VAS of low back in both groups decreased significantly at the final follow-up (P < 0.05). Significant differences in VAS and ODI were found between the two groups at the final follow-up (P < 0.05). The improvement rates of VAS and ODI of Group M are both significantly higher than Group MM. Regression analysis showed that age and spinal-pelvic match had significant effects on the improvement of patients’ low back pain at the final follow-up.Conclusionslumbar interbody fusion can significantly improve the prognosis of patients with LDD. In terms of outcomes with an average follow-up time of more than 2 years, the spinal-pelvic match has a positive effect on patients’ quality of life and the release of low back pain.

Evaluation of spinopelvic alignment according to Roussouly classification can predict the occurrence of adjacent segment disease after lumbar fusion

Objective: To investigate the correlation of spinopelvic alignment according to Roussouly classification on the occurrence of adjacent segment disease (ASD) in the patients undergoing fusion surgery for lumbar degenerative diseases. Methods: A cross-sectional study. Clinical data of 166 consecutive patients who had undergone lumbar fusion between January 2009 and January 2019 in the Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University and Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Medical School of Nanjing University were retrospectively reviewed. There were 59 males and 107 females, with an average age of (58.6±9.5) years (ranged 41-78 years). Fusion length averagely spanned (1.7±0.7) levels (ranged 1-3 levels). The patients were classified by both "theoretical" (based on pelvic incidence (PI)) and "current"(based on sacral slope (SS)) Roussouly types. The patients were classified as "matched" if their "current" shape matched the "theoretical" type and otherwise as "unmatched". Multivariate logistic regression analysis of the variables recruited from univariate analyses was performed to identify the factors independently associated with the development of ASD after lumbar fusion. Results: The average follow-up duration after initial surgery was (49.2±20.7) months (ranged 25 to 134 months). Thirty (18.1%, 30/166) patients were diagnosed as ASD. Postoperatively, two thirds of the patients who suffered ASD after surgery were unmatched, while 36.8% (50/136) of the patients without ASD had unmatched type. Univariate analyses showed that older age, more fusion levels, float fusion, pre-and postoperative worse spinopelvic alignment, and postoperative unmatched Roussouly type were identified as risk factors of ASD. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified postoperative Roussouly type mismatch (OR=3.310, 95%CI: 1.282-8.545, P=0.013), old age (OR=1.074, 95%CI: 1.019-1.131, P=0.008) and postoperative SS (OR=0.928, 95%CI: 0.865-0.995, P=0.036) as the independent risk factors of development of ASD after lumbar fusion. Conclusion: A significant association between postoperative sagittal malalignment and occurrence of ASD is detected, the evaluation of sagittal alignment by Roussouly classification could help predict the occurrence of ASD.

Incidence, clinical features, and risk factors for acute pancreatitis following posterior instrumented fusion surgery for lumbar degenerative disease: a single-center, retrospective analysis of 20,929 patients.

The aim of this study is to identify the incidence, clinical features, and risk factors for postoperative acute pancreatitis (PAP) after lumbar surgery. We retrospectively analyzed patients who developed PAP after posterior lumbar fusion surgery. For each PAP patient, data were collected for four controls who underwent procedures in the same period and did not develop PAP. Statistical methods included univariate and multivariate analyses. Totally, 21 out of 20,929 patients were diagnosed with PAP (0.10%) after posterior lumbar fusion surgery. Patients with degenerative lumbar scoliosis were at higher risk of developing PAP (P < 0.05). With atypical clinical features, PAP occurred within 3days (0-5) after surgery. PAP patients had significantly higher incidence of osteoporosis (47.6 vs. 22.6%, P = 0.030) and fusion of L1/2(42.9 vs. 4.3%, P = 0.010), lower albumin (42.2 ± 4.1 vs. 44.3 ± 3.2g/L, P = 0.010), more fusion segments (median 4 vs. 3, P = 0.022), larger surgical invasiveness index (median 9 vs. 8, P = 0.007), longer operation duration (232 ± 109 vs. 185 ± 90min, P = 0.041), greater estimated blood loss (median 600 vs. 400mL, P = 0.025), lower intraoperative mean arterial pressure (87.2 ± 9.9 vs. 92.1 ± 8.8mmHg, P = 0.024). Multivariate logistic regression analysis found three independent risk factors: fusion of L1/2, surgical invasiveness index > 8, and intraoperative mean arterial pressure < 90mmHg. All patients were treated with conservative therapy and fully recovered after 8.1 (4-22) days. The incidence of PAP following posterior surgery for degenerative lumbar disease was 0.10%, and its clinical features were not typical. The fusion of L1/2, high surgical invasiveness index, and low intraoperative mean arterial pressure were independent risk factors for PAP after surgery for lumbar degenerative disease.

Risk factors for postoperative complaints in patients following lumbar decompression and fusion: Analyses focusing on preoperative symptoms

BackgroundSeveral patients complained of residual symptoms following lumbar decompressive surgery for lumbar degenerative disease (LDD). However, few studies analyze this dissatisfaction by focusing on preoperative patients' symptoms. This study was conduct to determine the factors that could predict the patients’ postoperative complaints by focusing on their preoperative symptoms. MethodsFour hundred and seventeen consecutive patients who underwent lumbar decompression and fusion surgery for LDD were included. Postoperative complaint was defined by at least twice same complaint during the outpatient follow-up of 6,12, 18 and 24 months after surgery. A comparative analysis was performed between complaint group (group C, N = 168) and non-complaint group (group NC, N = 249). Demographic, operative, symptomatic, and clinical factors were compared between the groups by univariate and multivariate analyses. ResultsThe main preoperative chief complaints were radiating pain (318/417, 76.2%). However, most common postoperative complaint was residual radiating pain (60/168, 35.7%) followed by tingling sensation (43/168, 25.6%). The presence of psychiatric disease (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 4.666; P = 0.017), longer pain duration (aOR, 1.021; P < 0.001), pain to below the knee (aOR, 2.326; P = 0.001), preoperative tingling sensation (aOR, 2.631; P < 0.001), preoperative sensory and motor power decrease (aOR, 2.152 and 1.678; P = 0,047 and 0.011, respectively) were significantly correlated with postoperative patients’ complaints in multivariate analysis. ConclusionsThe postoperative patients' complaints could be predicted and explained in advance by checking the preoperative characteristics of patients’ symptoms, including the duration and site carefully. This could be helpful to enhance the understanding of the surgical results preoperatively, which could control the anticipation of the patients.

Comparison of surgical invasiveness, hidden blood loss, and clinical outcome between unilateral biportal endoscopic and minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion for lumbar degenerative disease: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundCurrently, hidden blood loss (HBL) has been paid more and more attention by spine surgeons. Simultaneously, it has been the effort of spine surgeons to explore more advantages of minimally invasive surgery. More and more articles have compared unilateral biportal endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion (BE-LIF) and minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF). But so far, there is no HBL comparison between BE-LIF and MIS-TLIF. This study aims to compare the surgical invasiveness, hidden blood loss, and clinical outcome of BE-LIF and MIS-TLIF and to provide insight regarding minimally invasive surgery for lumbar degenerative disease (LDD).MethodsWe enrolled 103 eligible patients with LDD who underwent BE-LIF (n = 46) and MIS-TLIF (n = 57) during August 2020–March 2021. We collected data, including demographics, perioperative haematocrit, operative and postoperative hospital times, serum creatine kinase (CK) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, and hospitalization costs. Total and hidden blood loss was calculated. Clinical outcomes were assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) score for back and leg pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), modified MacNab criteria, fusion rate, and complications.ResultsBasic demographics and surgical data were comparable. The CRP and CK levels were generally lower in the BE-LIF than in the MIS-TLIF group, especially CRP levels on postoperative day (POD) three and CK levels on POD one. True total blood loss, postoperative blood loss, and hidden blood loss were significantly reduced in the BE-LIF group compared with the MIS-TLIF group. Postoperative hospital times was statistically significantly shorter in the BE-LIF group. The VAS pain and ODI scores improved in both groups. At three days and one month, the VAS lower back pain scores were significantly better after BE-LIF. Clinical outcomes did not otherwise differ between groups.ConclusionsCompared with MIS-TLIF, BE-LIF has similar medium and short-term clinical outcomes. However, it is better regarding surgical trauma, early lower back pain, total and hidden blood loss, and recovery time. BE-LIF is an adequate option for selected LDD.

A retrospective study on application of a classification criterion based on relative intervertebral tension in spinal fusion surgery for lumbar degenerative diseases

BackgroundAs an important part of spinal fusion procedure, the selection of fusion cage size is closely related to the curative effect of the surgery. It mainly depends on the clinical experience of surgeons, and there is still a lack of objective standards. The purpose of this study is to propose the concept of relative intervertebral tension (RIT) for the first time and its grading standards to improve the surgical procedures of lumbar interbody fusion.MethodsThis retrospective study was conducted from January 2018 to July 2019. A total of 83 eligible patients including 45 men and 38 women with lumbar degenerative disease underwent transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) were included in this study. A total of 151 fusion segments were divided into group A, group B and group C according to the grading standards of RIT. In addition, parameters of intervertebral space angle (ISA), intervertebral space height (ISH), intervertebral space foramen (IFH), fusion rates, cage-related complications and cage heights were also compared among the three groups.ResultsThe ISA in group A was the smallest among three groups in contrast with group C with largest ISA at the final follow-up(P < 0.05). The group A presented the smallest ISH and IFH values(P < 0.05), compared with group B with the largest ISH and IFH values(P < 0.05). These two parameters in the group C were in-between. The fusion rates of group A, group B and group C were 100%, 96.3% and 98.8% at the final follow-up, respectively. No statistical difference in fusion rates and cage-related complications occurred among the three groups(P > 0.05), and a certain correlation between ISH and RIT was also observed.ConclusionsThe concept of RIT and the application of its clinical grading standards could simplify the surgical procedures of spinal fusion and reduce cage-related complications.

MRI-based vertebral bone quality score for the assessment of osteoporosis in patients undergoing surgery for lumbar degenerative diseases

PurposeTo explore the value of vertebral bone quality (VBQ) scores in diagnosing osteoporosis in patients with lumbar degeneration.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted of 235 patients treated with lumbar fusion surgery at the age of ≥ 50; they were divided into a degenerative group and a control group according to the severity of degenerative changes on three-dimensional computed tomography. The L1-4 vertebral body and L3 cerebrospinal fluid signal intensities in the T1-weighted lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) image were recorded, and the VBQ score was calculated. Demographics, clinical data, and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) indicators were recorded, and the VBQ value was compared with bone density and T-score using the Pearson correlation coefficient. The VBQ threshold was obtained according to the control group and compared with the efficacy of osteoporosis diagnosis based on DXA.ResultsA total of 235 patients were included in the study, and the age of the degenerative group was older than that of the control group (61.8 vs. 59.4, P = 0.026). The VBQ score of the control group suggested a higher correlation with the bone mineral density (BMD) value and T-score (r = − 0.611 and − 0.62, respectively). The BMD value and T-score in the degenerative group were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the VBQ score had a good predictive ability for osteoporosis (AUC = 0.818), with a sensitivity of 93% and a specificity of 65.4%. Among the undiagnosed osteoporosis patients with T-score, the VBQ score after adjusting the threshold was higher in the degenerative group (46.9% vs. 30.8%).ConclusionsEmerging VBQ scores can reduce the interference caused by degenerative changes compared to traditional DXA measures. Screening for osteoporosis in patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery provides new ideas.

Preoperative Zung depression scale predicts outcomes in older patients undergoing short-segment fusion surgery for degenerative lumbar spinal disease.

To identify the relationship between depression measured by Zung depression rating scale (ZDRS) and postoperative outcomes (including the patients reported outcomes [PRO] and clinical outcomes) two years after short-segment fusion surgery for degenerative lumbar spinal disease in older patients (aged 75years and older). We enrolled patients who underwent short-segment fusion surgery for lumbar degenerative disease from May 2018 to June 2020. All patients were assessed for depression using the ZDRS. Patients were included in the depression group and not-depressed group based on their scores. Preoperative baseline data were collected on characteristics, comorbidities, laboratory data, pain levels (visual analogue scale [VAS]), functional status (Oswestry Disability Index [ODI]), and surgery-related variables. The primary outcomes were PRO measures, including VAS, ODI and satisfaction two years after lumbar fusion surgery. Other outcomes included postoperative complications, the length of stay, and reoperation. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the risk factors for poor satisfaction. A total of 231 patients (201 in not-depressed and 30 in depressed group) were enrolled in this study. There were no significant differences between the two groups for baseline data. Depressed group had higher rates of choices for dissatisfaction (36.7% vs. 14.0%, p = 0.015), higher VAS scores of low back pain (2.8 ± 2.3 vs. 1.6 ± 1.7, p = 0.012), and worse functional status (31.5 ± 22.5 vs 21.8 ± 19.9, p = 0.015) than the not-depressed group. Depressed patients reported significantly higher rates of postoperative complications and readmissions. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that depression (p = 0.001) was independently associated with postoperative dissatisfaction. Preoperative depression was a risk factor for postoperative dissatisfaction, worse functional status, readmission, and complications in older patients undergoing lumbar fusion surgery. Preoperative screening using the Zung depression scale helps inform decision-making when considering fusion surgery for patients aged 75 and older.

Thoughts and concerns of patients at hospital discharge after lumbar spine surgery. A qualitative study

Purpose The increased rate of surgical interventions point to the necessity to investigate the patient’s experience from a biopsychosocial perspective. The aim of this study was to investigate the thoughts and concerns of patients undergoing spinal surgery for lumbar degenerative disease at the time of their discharge from hospital. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 patients. The questions investigated possible concerns associated to discharging them home. A content analysis was performed by a multidisciplinary group to identify the main themes that emerged from the interviews. Results The patients were satisfied with the surgeons’ preoperative explanations and description of expected prognosis. However, they were disappointed with the lack of information at hospital discharge, in particular regarding practical and behavioral recommendations. The patients expressed clear concerns about being left alone to deal with possible complications or difficulties they may encounter when returning home. Conclusion This study underlined the patients’ need for a comprehensive psychological guidance and possibly a person of reference during the post-operative process. Discussing discharge with the patient was emphasized as an important issue to improve patients’ compliance to the recovery process itself. Putting these elements into practice should help spine surgeons to manage better hospital discharge. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION A comprehensive discussion with the patient at the time of hospital discharge is clearly stressed as an important issue to improve patients’ adherence to the recovery process. The patients complained of a lack of information when returning home, in particular regarding practical and behavioral recommendations. The patients expressed clear concerns about possible complications or difficulties they may encounter when returning home and they expressed their need to know whom they can contact for help if needed. A better understanding of the thoughts and concerns of patients undergoing spinal surgery at the time of their discharge from hospital should help spine surgeons to improve the management of hospital discharge and the post-operative recovery.

Association Between Neighborhood-Level Socioeconomic Disadvantage and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Lumbar Spine Surgery.

Despite an increased understanding of the impact of socioeconomic status on neurosurgical outcomes, the impact of neighborhood-level social determinants on lumbar spine surgery patient-reported outcomes remains unknown. To evaluate the impact of geographic social deprivation on physical and mental health of lumbar surgery patients. A single-center retrospective cohort study analyzing patients undergoing lumbar surgery for degenerative disease from 2015 to 2018 was performed. Surgeries were categorized as decompression only or decompression with fusion. The area deprivation index was used to define social deprivation. Study outcomes included preoperative and change in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement (PROMIS) physical function (PF), pain interference (PI), depression, and anxiety (mean follow-up: 43.3 weeks). Multivariable imputation was performed for missing data. One-way analysis of variance and multivariable linear regression were used to evaluate the association between area deprivation index and PROMIS scores. In our cohort of 2010 patients, those with the greatest social deprivation had significantly worse mean preoperative PROMIS scores compared with the least-deprived cohort (mean difference [95% CI]-PF: -2.5 [-3.7 to -1.4]; PI: 3.0 [2.0-4.1]; depression: 5.5 [3.4-7.5]; anxiety: 6.0 [3.8-8.2], all P < .001), without significant differences in change in these domains at latest follow-up (PF: +0.5 [-1.2 to 2.2]; PI: -0.2 [-1.7 to 2.1]; depression: -2 [-4.0 to 0.1]; anxiety: -2.6 [-4.9 to 0.4], all P > .05). Lumbar spine surgery patients with greater social deprivation present with worse preoperative physical and mental health but experience comparable benefit from surgery than patients with less deprivation, emphasizing the need to further understand social and health factors that may affect both disease severity and access to care.

Predictive factors for residual leg numbness after decompression surgery for lumbar degenerative diseases

BackgroundThe purpose of this study is to evaluate the change patterns of leg numbness (LN) after lumbar decompression surgery (LDS), and to find the predictive factors that affect the recovery of numbness.MethodsPatients who underwent LDS in our institution between August 2020 and July 2021 were prospectively enrolled in this study, and were followed by a 12-month follow-up. The degree of LN, leg pain (LP) and the disability were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) and oswestry disability index (ODI).ResultsA total of 314 patients finished the 12-month follow-up. The preoperative mean VAS-LN score was 3.49 ± 2.44, which decreased to 1.91 ± 1.30 at 3 months, to 1.29 ± 0.97 at 6 months and to 1.26 ± 0.96 at 12 months after surgery. The preoperative mean VAS-LP score was 6.05 ± 1.30, which decreased to 2.00 ± 0.86 at 3 months, to 1.02 ± 0.80 at 6 months, and to 0.49 ± 0.71 at 12 months after surgery. The preoperative mean ODI score was 27.90 ± 7.08, which decreased to 9.73 ± 3.09 at 3 months, to 6.72 ± 2.98 at 6 months, and to 4.57 ± 2.76 at 12 months after surgery. Via multivariate logistic regression analysis, only preoperative VAS-LN score (p < 0.001*) was identified as a significantly independent predictive factor for residual LN after operation.ConclusionClinically significant improvement in LN was observed in the majority of patients within 6 months after LDS, and the improvement of VAS-LN was slower than the VAS-LP. High pre-operative VAS-LN score can independently predict the presence of residual LN after surgery at 12-month follow up.